The Memory Monster and the Mortal by John Pulver

His sword heavy, the man blinks, but the monster does not vanish.

The monster grins. “Why hold onto the past? Such a futile endeavor.”

“Go away. Let me remember for a little longer.”

“And deny my hunger?”

“I do not understand. Why must you exist? The universe expands. Why can’t it hold my memories?” the man asks to give himself resting time, not expecting answers.

The monster cocks his head and squints one eye, and says, “The universe burns, without me.”

“Let me leave behind a picture or some words, and I will not fight.”

The monster laughs and lunges.

© Copyright 2016 John Pulver. All rights reserved.
• • • • •
John Pulver lives in a home shaded by a sycamore tree.